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Isabella is a tiny logging community in Lake County, Minnesota's Stony River Township. This rural outdoor haven -- which had a population of fewer than 200 residents, as of 2011 -- sits atop the Laurentian Divide. Founded in 1906, Isabella offers hiking, fishing, swimming and camping; there are four campsites within a 30-mile radius.

Divide Lake Campground

Isabella's own Divide Lake Campground (no website; Forest Road 172, Isabella; 218-663-8060) is situated deep in the heart of Superior National Forest. This small campground offers three private camping sites, each with fire pits and a picnic table. The campground offers boat access to Divide Lake, a fishing pier, clean drinking water and bathroom and shower facilities. From the campgrounds, visitors can enjoy a two-mile hiking trail.

Little Isabella River Campground

Little Isabella River Campground (no website; Minnesota Highway 1, Isabella; 877-444-6777) is situated amid a grove of ancient pine trees. The campgrounds offer picnic tables, a handicapped-accessible bathroom, grills, flushable toilets and firewood. Activities accessible from the site include hiking, swimming, fishing and bird watching. The site is open during the spring and summer; call ahead to confirm your stay.

McDougal Lake Campground

Isabella's McDougal Lake Campground (no website; Forest Road 106, Isabella; 877-444-6777) sits on the northern shore of McDougal Lake in a grove of pine and oak trees. The site offers privacy; some of the lots cannot be reached by car. This secluded campground is open year-round, offering swimming, hiking, biking and fishing opportunities. Campers will note the lake's distinctive wild rice growth, which is harvested on the lake during the fall.

Wildhurst Lodge & Campground

Wildhurst Lodge & Campground (wildhurstlodge.com) can be found just outside of Isabella in the town of Finland, Minnesota. This year-round resort offers rustic cabin accommodations, tent camping and RV hookups. Situated on over 40 acres of land, the campground often lodges skiers and snowboarders during the winter. The resort's main building has its own restaurant and bar. Each private campsite comes with a fire pit and picnic tables.

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About the Author

Ginger Yapp has been writing professionally since 2006, specializing in travel and film topics. Her work has appeared in such publications as "USA Today" and online at Hotels.com. Yapp also has experience writing and editing for a small California newspaper. She earned her B.A. in film and media studies and has worked as an ESL teacher at an international school.